| Author (Person) | Mallinder, Lorraine |
|---|---|
| Series Title | European Voice |
| Series Details | 14.02.08 |
| Publication Date | 14/02/2008 |
| Content Type | News |
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The European Commission is pondering an EU-wide crack-down on illegal file-sharing of music and films, modelled on France’s ‘three strikes’ plan. The model, yet to be introduced in France, would oblige internet service providers (ISPs) to curb illegal downloading. People downloading music and films illegally would first receive a warning from their ISP, before facing suspension and then termination of their contract. The Commission is now consulting the French government with a view to extending the model, known as the Olivenne agreement, across the EU, said a diplomatic source. Several officials, including Information Society Commissioner Viviane Reding and Internal Market Commissioner Charlie McCreevy have expressed an interest and are examining France’s plans, she said. The media industry is banking on France’s forthcoming presidency of the EU to help push through EU-wide measures to tackle the practice. Frances Moore, executive vice-president of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, said: "We are looking to the French presidency to make the fight against piracy one of its priorities. "We would like to see the EU take a harmonised approach on this issue and are urging the European Commission to bring together parties to broker an agreement that will ensure that ISPs play a far bigger role in combating online music piracy." The entertainment industry is also pushing for tougher EU action through other channels, namely an ongoing revision of EU telecoms legislation currently going through the European Parliament, and a Commission-led public consultation on online content. The telecoms package, in particular, presents multiple opportunities for curbing illegal activity. The universal services directive, for example, requires ISPs to provide their subscribers with information on copyright. Industry will lobby MEPs to introduce tougher contractual controls into the proposals. "Most ISP contracts already require sub-scribers to respect copyright. We want them to enforce the contracts," said Ted Shapiro, vice-president and general counsel for the European division of the Motion Picture Association. The industry was given a boost this week as details emerged of UK plans to introduce the ‘three strikes’ system. The option, shortly to be presented in a green paper, follows closely the French approach. The move to legislate follows the failure of rights-holders and ISPs to develop a voluntary system of co-operation. "Self-regulation is good. The problem is that so far it hasn’t led anywhere," said Shapiro. The European Commission is pondering an EU-wide crack-down on illegal file-sharing of music and films, modelled on France’s ‘three strikes’ plan. |
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| Source Link | http://www.europeanvoice.com |
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| Countries / Regions | Europe, France |
